Foreign-Affairs
Swedish Crown Princess witnesses Bangladesh's digital progress
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, during her visit to Bangladesh as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UNDP, observed the significant strides made by the country in achieving digital transformation in an event titled 'Innovate Together for #ZeroDigitalDivide'.
The event was organised by the ICT Division and Aspire to Innovate-a2i with the support of UNDP. It was held at the Foreign Service Academy in Dhaka on Monday.
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Swedish Minister Johan Forssell visiting Bangladesh
The event underscored Bangladesh's steadfast commitment to realising a future free of digital disparities, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the vision of leaving no one behind.
During the event, the Swedish Crown Princess witnessed Bangladesh's exemplary journey in bridging the digital divide through innovative initiatives such as Digital Centres, the National Helpline 333, e-commerce platforms, and freelancer support programs.
These initiatives are empowering citizens, particularly young people and entrepreneurs, across Bangladesh, paving the way for inclusive growth and socio-economic development.
State Minister Zunaid Ahmed Palak shared insights into Bangladesh's Digital to Smart Bangladesh journey, emphasising how technology is driving social transformation by expanding access to education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
He reiterated Bangladesh's commitment to creating a world with ‘Zero Digital Divide’, ensuring equitable access to the benefits of the digital revolution for all citizens.
Ulrika Modéer, UN Assistant Secretary-General at UNDP; Johan Forssell, Swedish Minister for International Development Cooperation and Foreign Trade; Alexandra Berg von Linde, Ambassador of Sweden to Bangladesh, were also present during the event along with other senior government officials, UN representatives, and the private sector.
Through interactive sessions and exhibitions, participants discussed the transformative impact of Bangladesh's digitisation efforts, emphasising the opportunities created for individuals from diverse backgrounds.
They also discussed Bangladesh's remarkable progress and unwavering commitment to creating a ‘Zero Digital Divide’ world.
During the visit to Bangladesh, the Crown Princess will conduct field visits to witness firsthand the positive impact of inclusive digital development on poverty reduction in rural areas.
The Swedish Crown Princess will also explore initiatives led by women and young entrepreneurs aimed at mitigating the effects of climate change in vulnerable areas, implemented by the government and UNDP.
PM seeks Ireland’s support to get EU's GSP support until 2032
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday sought Ireland’s support in Bangladesh's efforts to enjoy the preferential trade facilities in the EU market until 2032 instead of 2029 during the country’s post-graduation period.
She sought the support when a high-level Irish delegation, led by Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney paid a courtesy call on her at her official residence Ganabhaban.
PM's Speech writer Md Nazrul Islam briefed reporters after the meeting.
The premier said Ireland is a close friend and partner of Bangladesh and the EU member country has always been beside Bangladesh in different international forums.
She requested Ireland to support Bangladesh in the matter of Bangladesh’s interest in the EU Platform.
“The prime minister sought Ireland’s support so that the EU would extend the business facilities, particularly the Generalised Scheme of Preferences (GSP) for Bangladesh till 2032,” he said.
She called upon Irish businesses to make investments in special economic zones and hi-tech parks of Bangladesh.
Noting that Bangladesh is a potential big marketing hub for three-four billion consumers, she said there is huge scope for Ireland’s entrepreneurs to invest in several promising sectors like ICT, pharmaceuticals and agro-based industry of Bangladesh.
On the labour issue, Hasina said misinformation regarding Bangladesh’s labour policy is being spread with ill-motive. There’ll be no misunderstanding in this issue if the EU countries directly contact the government of Bangladesh to know about it, she said.
The Irish minister said he arrived in Bangladesh to strengthen the bilateral relations between Ireland and Bangladesh further.
Noting that he is here to formally open Ireland's first honorary consulate in Dhaka, he said the office would also help intensify the people-to-people and trade relations between the two countries.
Coveney said Ireland wants to extend technical support to Bangladesh’s technology and food industry (agro-processing industries).
He said Ireland will continue trying to extend support to Bangladesh for its socio-economic uplift in the United Nations and the EU forums.
Mentioning that a good number of Bangladeshi students are now pursuing their study in Ireland, the visiting minister assured that the European country would welcome a larger number of students from Bangladesh.
About the Rohingya issue, the Irish minister said Ireland will continue its support in this regard.
He, however, suggested intensifying security to Rohingya refugee camps, engaging them in income generating activities and arranging permanent and more developed houses for displaced Rohingya people.
In response, the Bangladesh premier said an adequate number of security members are deployed for Rohingya camps, but killings and other crimes are seen sometimes as there are many internal groups who already engaged in different criminal activities there.
She said there is no instance in the world that permanent houses are constructed for refugees. Even after that Bangladesh has arranged standard housing for one lakh Rohingyas in Bhashanchar.
If they want to go there, we can arrange housing for some 4 lakh Rohingyas in Bhashanchar. But unfortunately the housing project in Bhashanchar is not being successful due to opposition from some international communities, non-government organisations and countries.
PM’s Principal Secretary Md Tofazzel Hossain Miah and Ambassador of Ireland to India Kevin Kelly and Honorary Consul of Ireland for Bangladesh Masud Jamil Khan were, among others, present at the meeting.
The Irish minister arrived in Dhaka on Sunday on the second leg of his seven-day official visit to India and Bangladesh as part of his government's St Patrick's Day programme.
Irish Minister Simon Coveney officially opens its first Honorary Consulate in Dhaka
Irish Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney on Monday officially opened Ireland’s first Honorary Consulate in Dhaka which is seen as an “important milestone” in the relations between Bangladesh and Ireland.
In its desire to further expand the bilateral relations with Dhaka, Ireland has recently appointed Cosmos Group Deputy Managing Director Masud Jamil Khan its Honourary Consul in Bangladesh.
Ambassador of Ireland to India, Kevin Kelly and Masud Jamil Khan, among others, were present during the opening ceremony.
Dialogue: Journey towards inclusive democracy a shared endeavor that requires collective action, cooperation
Indonesia’s Deputy Minister for Information and Public Diplomacy Siti Nugraha Mauludiah on Monday said Bangladesh and Indonesia have the same vision to safeguard world peace and to nurture and protect the existence of inclusive society.
“Cultivating environment for democracy to thrive is our way to do it,” she said while speaking at a dialogue on “Democracy in Inclusive Society” at the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS).
The Deputy Minister said this forum is their way to nurture both democracy and inclusive society and “I believe this dialogue will not stop here but will present more opportunities such as new partnership between Indonesia and Bangladesh.”
Ambassador of the Republic of Indonesia to Bangladesh Heru H Subolo and Director, Bangladesh Institute of Law and International Affairs (BILIA) and former Chairman, National Human Rights Commission, Bangladesh Professor Mizanur Rahman spoke at the inaugural session.
“This forum serves to further fortify the longstanding bond between Indonesia and Bangladesh. At the governmental level, Indonesia and Bangladesh stand out as pivotal players within their respective regions,” said the Indonesian Deputy Minister.
Indonesia holds the distinction of being the largest democratic nation in its region, while also wielding considerable economic influence.
“This was underscored notably during Indonesia's Chairmanship of ASEAN last year, reaffirming its importance on the regional stage,” she said.
In numerous aspects, Mauludiah said Bangladesh evokes a striking resemblance to Indonesia, resonating with a tapestry of diversity and inclusivity interwoven seamlessly - from the rich culture, to the food, to the warmth of the people.
She said their media, CSO, academician, youth and the whole elements of society play a significant role in nurturing inclusive society and be part of their democratization process, a source of immense pride for the nation.
“They provide analysis, they become our close partners and allies, they represent the voice amplifier, the one who can and should curb the movement of hoax and hate speech and the collaborative effort blossomed fruitfully,” she said.
The dialog on “Democracy in Inclusive Society” is part of Indonesia flagship programme which is called the Bali Democracy Forum, held every year in Bali, Indonesia.
“Bangladesh’s participation in the Forum has never been absent. Even in 2011, PM Sheikh Hasina herself participated,” Ambassador Subolo said.
“Democracy, as we understand it, is not merely a system of governance; it is a philosophy that ensures the voices of all people, regardless of their background or beliefs, are heard and respected,” he said.
The Ambassador said inclusive democracy encompasses the involvement of every citizen in the decision-making processes that can shape people's lives.
“Both Indonesia and Bangladesh share a profound commitment to democratic principles," he said.
The envoy said the two nations have traversed unique paths, overcoming various challenges, to establish vibrant democracies that reflect the diversity and aspirations of the people.
“Through this journey, we have learned that true democracy thrives when it is inclusive, accommodates the views and aspirations of all segments of society, including minorities, women, youth, and marginalized communities,” he said.
The Ambassador said the journey towards inclusive democracy is a shared endeavor that requires collective action and cooperation. “And today’s dialogue is one of our momentums to unite and strengthen these efforts.”
Professor Mizanur Rahman said Bangladesh is the only country in South Asia which achieved its independence through a bloody War of Liberation, noting that it was not a charity or gift.
“We had to fight and attain our independence. We have a homegrown philosophy of democracy and inclusiveness,” he said, highlighting four fundamental pillars of the constitution - nationalism, democracy, secularism, and socialism.
Prof Mizanur said they have to get rid of the colonial and pre-colonial western thoughts and noted that the US has proved that democracy is never for all.
The Embassy of Indonesia in Dhaka in collaboration with the Bangladesh Institute of International and Strategic Studies (BIISS) hosted the dialogue.
Irish Minister Simon Coveney pays homage to Father of the Nation at Dhanmondi-32
Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney has paid homage to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi-32.
He placed a floral wreath at Bangabandhu's portrait on Monday morning.
Irish Minister Simon Coveney to meet PM Hasina Monday
The Irish Minister observed a minute of silence in memory of all those martyred on August 15, 1975.
He also had a tour of the Bangabandhu Memorial Museum and signed the Visitor's Book.
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Swedish Minister Johan Forssell to visit Bangladesh March 18-21
The Irish Minister, who is on a two-day official visit, also met Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on Monday.
Bangabandhu’s life and Bangladesh’s history are tied to same stint: Ambassador Imran
The 104th birth anniversary of the greatest Bangalee of all time, Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and National Children’s Day-2024 were celebrated at theBangladesh Embassy in Washington DC on Sunday with due respect and festivity.
To celebrate the day, the Embassy organised elaborate programs which included hoisting of the National Flag, placing a floral wreath at the bust of Bangabandhu, discussion meeting, essay and painting competitions for children and screening of documentaries on Bangabandhu.
The day’s programs at the Embassy began in the morning with the ceremonial hoisting of the National Flag in front of the Chancery Building by Ambassador Muhammad Imran.
Officials and employees of the Mission were present at that time.
Bangabandhu's Birth Anniversary Celebrated in Malaysia
Later, the Ambassador placed a floral wreath at the bust of the Father of the Nation at Bangabandhu Corner in the presence of the officials and employees of the Mission.
Messages issued on the occasion by the President, Prime Minister, and the Foreign Minister were read out by Minister (Consular) Md Habibur Rahman, Minister (Commerce) Md Salim Reza and Minister (Economic) Dr. Md Fazle Rabbi.
Taking part in the discussion, Ambassador Imran paid glowing tributes to the Father of the Nation and recalled his long struggle from the great Language Movement to the War of Liberation to achieve the much-anticipated independence of the nation.
Describing Bangabandhu as an uncompromising and fearless leader, he said the life of the great leader and the history of Bangladesh are tied to the same stint.
While talking about the National Children’s Day, the Ambassador said the government led by Bangabandhu’s able daughter and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has taken various programs to make the country a safe abode for the future generations.
He hoped that the new generation would be the main driving force to lead the nation and put it in a more dignified position in the world in future. Ambassador Imran requested the guardians to let the children know about Bangabandhu’s great sacrifice for independence and rebuilding the war-ravaged nation alongside Bangladesh’s rich history, culture and heritage.
He also called upon all to work unitedly under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to build a happy and prosperous Bangladesh free from hunger and poverty by embracing the spirit of the Liberation War and the ideology of the Father of the Nation.
Minister (Press) AZM Sajjad Hossain also took part in the discussion highlighting Bangabandhu’s long struggle for independence and huge contribution to rebuilding the war-ravaged nation.
The morning part of the program ended with offering a special prayer seeking eternal peace for the departed souls of Bangabandhu and other martyrs of the August 15 carnage as well as continued peace, progress and prosperity of the nation.
Irish Minister Simon Coveney to meet PM Hasina Monday
Later in the evening, the Ambassador cut a cake with the participation of the children and distributed prizes among the winners of the essay and painting competitions. First Secretary (Passport & Visa Wing) Muhammad Abdul Hye Milton and First Secretary Ataur Rahman conducted the programs.
Bangabandhu's Birth Anniversary Celebrated in Malaysia
The Bangladesh High Commission in Malaysia celebrated the 104th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, and National Children's Day with fervor, festivity, and enthusiasm.
The day-long program commenced on Sunday morning, with the hoisting of the national flag by the High Commissioner of Bangladesh to Malaysia, Shamim Ahsan, along with officers, officials, and family members of the Mission, reads a press release.
In the evening, a discussion meeting took place at the auditorium of the High Commission. Various activities included placing floral wreaths on Bangabandhu's portrait by the High Commissioner, accompanied by his wife, Pendora Chowdhury, members of the High Commission family, and members of the expatriate Bangladeshi community.
Messages from the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minister were read out, a documentary was screened, and there was a discussion meeting, readings from Bangabandhu's 'Unfinished Memoire' and 'Prison Diaries' by two young expatriate students, cake cutting, releasing of balloons, and special prayers.
Prizes were distributed among the winners of an essay competition organized by the High Commission on the theme 'Bangabandhu and Bangladesh'.
The High Commissioner and his spouse, along with jubilant children, cut a cake on the occasion of Bangabandhu's birthday and National Children's Day 2024. The High Commissioner, representatives of the new generation, members of the High Commission family, and members of the expatriate Bangladeshi community released balloons.
During the discussion meeting, Md. Shameem Ahsan, the High Commissioner, paid tribute to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, for his significant contribution to the independence of Bangladesh.
Terming 'Bangladesh and Bangabandhu as identical,' the High Commissioner added that Bangabandhu’s ideals would serve as an eternal source of inspiration for the entire nation.
The High Commissioner further illuminated various initiatives taken by Bangabandhu and Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for the welfare of children.
Ahsan emphasized the importance of educating children about the life and works of Bangabandhu. He urged expatriate Bangladeshis to work together to realize the dream of 'Shonar Bangla' as envisioned by Bangabandhu. The High Commissioner stated that Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina is determined to build a prosperous and knowledge-based Smart Bangladesh to fulfill the dream of 'Golden Bangla' envisaged by Bangabandhu. Under her dynamic leadership, Bangladesh is considered a 'role model of development' globally.
The auditorium took on a festive ambiance on the occasion of the Father of the Nation's birthday, decorated with Bangabandhu’s portraits, banners, posters, balloons, etc. The program was attended by Mission officials along with their families and members of the Bangladeshi community in Malaysia. The attendees were served traditional Bangladeshi iftar.
Irish Minister Simon Coveney to meet PM Hasina Monday
Irish Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment Simon Coveney arrived in Dhaka on Sunday on a two-day official visit aimed at boosting bilateral trade and investment.
Additional Foreign Secretary (Bilateral-East and West) Dr Md. Nazrul Islam warmly welcomed the Irish Minister at the Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport.
State Minister for Commerce Ahasanul Islam (Titu), MP hosted an iftar-dinner in honor of the visiting Irish Minister Sunday evening at the State guesthouse Padma.
The Irish Minister is expected to pay homage to Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman at Dhanmondi-32.
He will meet Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina at her official residence on Monday morning.
The Irish Minister will also meet with Foreign Minister Dr Hasan Mahmud and Private Industry and Investment Adviser to Prime Minister Salman F Rahman on Monday.
He will inaugurate the new Honorary Consulate of Ireland in Dhaka and join St. Patrick’s Day celebration.
Earlier, he visited India as part of his government’s St Patrick’s Day programme.
He will conduct a series of political, trade and Ireland-Bangladesh community meetings, according to the Irish government.
Ambassador of Ireland to India, Kevin Kelly says, "I am also glad that Minister Coveney will officially open Ireland’s first Honorary Consulate in Dhaka, Bangladesh, which is an important milestone in our relations with Bangladesh,".
In its desire to further expand the bilateral relations with Dhaka, Ireland has recently appointed Cosmos Group Deputy Managing Director Masud Jamil Khan its Honourary Consul in Bangladesh.
About the minister's visit Khan said, "Building on the existing excellent relations, Bangladesh and Ireland have scope to work together to strengthen the bilateral ties tapping the potential of cooperation and collaboration in broad areas."
“Bangladesh is a very fast growing country and Ireland is a very developed and educated country. Both sides can work very well together,” he told UNB.
Bangladesh and Ireland established diplomatic relations in early 1972.
Both countries are keen on expanding bilateral economic cooperation with Ireland showing interest in taking skilled IT manpower from Bangladesh.
During the past 27 years Bangladesh's exports to Ireland have increased at 16.8% annually from $7.1 million in 1995 to $466 million in 2022, according to official figures.
104th birth anniversary of Bangabandhu and National Children's Day celebrated in New Delhi
The 104th birth anniversary of the Father of the Nation Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman and the National Children’s Day was celebrated with due solemnity and fervour at the Bangladesh High Commission in New Delhi.
Md. Mustafizur Rahman, High Commissioner of Bangladesh to India, inaugurated the daylong programme by hoisting the national flag at the High Commission premises and placing floral wreath at the portrait of the Father of the Nation.
In the morning, a discussion programme was organized at the High Commission as part of the celebration.
At the beginning of the programme, the messages issued by the President, Prime Minister, and Foreign Minster were read out by the Mission officials.
In his speech, High Commissioner Rahman said Bangabandhu and Bangladesh are synonymous.
Bangabandhu’s 104th Birth Anniversary observed in Myanmar
"By breaking the shackles of exploitation, oppression, deprivation, and subjugation of a hundred years, he showed the path of liberation to the Bangalee nation," he said.
He underscored the need for inculcating Bangabandhu’s humane qualities in children to makethe future leaders of the country.
The High Commissioner also called upon everyone to continue their efforts in building ‘Smart Bangladesh’ under the leadership of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, holding Bangabandhu’s ideals intheir hearts.
Among others, Brigadier General Md. Hafizur Rahman, Defence Adviser of the High Commission, took part in the discussion and highlighted the significance and importance of the day.
In the evening, a cultural programme was organized at the Bangabandhu Hall of the High Commission with the participation of children.
Indonesian Embassy to organise dialogue in Dhaka on “Democracy in Inclusive Society” Monday
The event began with the cutting of a special cake in the presence of children. In this event, the Father of the Nation was remembered through his historic 7th March speech as well as poems, stories, and songs written on Bangabandhu. Finally, a documentary on Bangabandhu’s life and work was screened before the children.
On the occasion of the day, the High Commission also organized essay, poetry recitation, painting, quiz, and sports competitions for the children. In the evening, the High Commissioner distributed prizes among the winners of these competitions.
In the end, a special prayer was offered for the salvation of the souls of the Father of the Nation, his family members and all the martyrs who played a historical role in all stages of movements for freedom and Liberation War as well as for the peace, progress and prosperity of Bangladesh.
Officials and employees from the Bangladesh High Commission, expatriate Bangladeshis, and many children attended the programmes.
NDI-IRI report acknowledges less violence in Jan 7 election: Foreign Minister
Foreign Minister Hasan Mahmud on Sunday said the NDI-IRI in their report acknowledged that the January 7 National Election witnessed less violence.
The quality of the election was much better than the previous ones in Bangladesh or elections held in the subcontinent, he said.
"A fair and good election was held," said the Foreign Minister while responding to a question at Foreign Service Academy today.
Mahmud said the NDI and IRI have presented their statement. "We are looking at that. But a beautiful, fair, free and impartial election was held in the country."
2024 election had less physical, online violence compared to previous election cycles: NDI-IRI technical assessment mission
"BNP and their allies have not only boycotted the election but also tried to resist it… they should also address this issue," Hasan said.
He said that BNP incited violence and people were burnt and killed. "These issues have to be there in the report."
Responding to a question on whether the government is rejecting the report, the Foreign Minister said it is not a matter of rejection or acceptance.
"They have given the report, we are looking at it, and we are examining all the observations made by our friendly countries and anyone else," Hasan said.
Thd 2024 election had less physical, online violence compared to previous election cycles, said the NDI-IRI technical assessment mission.
Crown Princess Victoria of Sweden, Swedish Minister Johan Forssell to visit Bangladesh March 18-21
The joint National Democratic Institute (NDI) and International Republican Institute (IRI) Technical Assessment Mission — deployed to Bangladesh to monitor potential violence before, during, and after the country’s January 7, 2024 parliamentary election — has released its final report.
“This report provides a valuable roadmap for more peaceful elections in Bangladesh’s future,” said Manpreet Singh Anand, NDI’s Regional Director for the Asia-Pacific.
“Leaders across the socio-political spectrum – including political parties, the government, and civil society – have a responsibility to reform the rules, practices, and norms of electoral politics toward nonviolence,” he said.
The document provides a thematic analysis of different types of election-related violence and includes recommendations to the Bangladesh Election Commission, the executive and legislative branches of the government, political parties, civil society, and other stakeholders based on IRI’s and NDI’s comparative experience, to mitigate the risks of violence in future elections, in the furtherance of international cooperation and with respect for the sovereignty of Bangladesh.